Action Aid Nigeria has condemned the closure of the Africa Independent Television (AIT) and Raypower FM in Port Harcourt describing it as unjust and draconian
They stated that the actions taken by telecommunications engineers hired by Rivers State Government and accompanied by armed security operatives, is a blatant violation of Media Freedom and Violation of Legal Processes.
The organization in a statement signed by the Country Director Andrew Mamedu stated that actions taken by the state government including Sta dismantling the broadcasting infrastructure, disconnecting the wave guard from the antenna on the mast, and even deploying bulldozers to demolish the Transmitter Complex at the DAAR Communications PLC Broadcast Centre in Port Harcourt not only constitute a severe breach of media rights but also jeopardize the livelihoods of countless individuals who depend on these media outlets for their daily sustenance.
He expressed concern that the assault on the media was due to a land dispute and there have been ongoing legal proceedings and presumably fruitful dialogue between the state government and DAAR Communications, Plc.
ActionAid however called on the state government to follow due process, respect the rule of law and refrain from any further actions until all legal options and processes are fully explored.
Emphasizing the need to preserve jobs and welfare of approximately 80% of the workforce, who are from the Ozuoba community, they appealed or the preservation of jobs and the welfare of the affected families.
They also urged the state government to engage in constructive dialogue with Daar communications PLC and all relevant stakeholders to seek an amicable resolution to this dispute.
” It is essential to find a solution that respects the rights of all parties involved and upholds the principles of justice and fairness. Media freedom is a cornerstone of any democracy, and actions that undermine it have far-reaching consequences for the public’s right to information and the functioning of a vibrant civil society. We call on the Rivers State Government to reconsider its actions and uphold the values of transparency, respect for the rule of law, and freedom of the press,” they stated
They further called on the Inspector General of Police to intervene, investigate, and put an end to the blatant violation of media freedom by the Rivers State Government, saying it is crucial to send a strong message that such violations of legal processes and media freedom will no longer be tolerated in our democratic nation.